West African states prepare military force in case Jammeh fails to hand over power
West African nations are reportedly preparing a joint military force to intervene in Gambia if President Yahya Jammeh fails to hand over power, Reuters news agency reports a Nigerian military source to say.
“A decision has been taken that he will not remain president of Gambia at the expiration of his tenure,” the source said, referring to Jammeh.
The long-serving Gambian leader lost the December 1 election, initially accepting the defeat by AdamaBarrow. He even called the president-elect on live television to concede defeat and wish him well in his tenure.
Barely a week later however, Jammeh receded his decision, claiming the poll was marred by irregularities.
Barrow is due to be sworn in as President of The Gambia on Thursday, and the West African regional leaders are keen to have the new leader take over the country’s leadership.
